QBE Sydney Swans Academy players Marc Sheather and Sam Eynaud are reaping the benefits of the support they received as recipients of the Sydney Swans Foundation’s inaugural Frank Burton Scholarships.

Sheather hails from from Terrigal on the NSW Central Coast, while Eynaud plays for Pennant Hills.

The boys were chosen in 2017 by Academy head coach Jared Crouch and General Manager Chris Smith, based on their exemplary attitude and commitment to getting the best out of themselves.

When he received the Scholarship, Sheather said his aim was to be selected in representative teams this year, and the scholarship would assist his parents with the costs involved.

We’re pleased to report that both players have forged ahead with their football since last year.

Nick Davis, who has taken on the role of Talent ID and Development Manager at the Academy this year, coached both boys in the recent U16 NSW Academy Series against the Giants Academy.

Both Sheather and Eynaud were so impressive in that Series they were selected in the NSW-ACT Rams U16 state team, to play in this year’s U16 National AFL Championships.

Nick Davis says Sheather has developed into a very good midfielder/forward who is strong in one-on-one contests, always goes hard at the ball and is one of the most mature boys in the Academy’s U16 squad.

Regarding Eynaud, Davis says he’s shown enormous development in 2018. Playing mainly as a defender, his decision-making and composure have improved this year, making him extremely valuable in the back line. 

Both boys took their good form from the Academy Series into the NSW-ACT RAMS games, where they played against some of the best young talent in Australia, and Nick Davis sees a bright future for both.